Applications for the FY2026 Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan (Short-Term PE) are now open. Learn eligibility requirements, key dates, and how to apply before the 9 January 2026 deadline.

Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan: FY2026 Short-Term (PE) – Applications Now Open

The Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan remain one of the most prestigious avenues for early-career researchers aiming to engage in international scientific collaboration. For FY2026, the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) has officially opened the call for the Short-Term (PE) scheme, giving researchers from around the world the opportunity to carry out advanced studies in Japan. This fellowship continues to attract scholars from a wide range of academic disciplines who wish to collaborate with Japanese host institutions, access world-class research environments, and strengthen long-term global research networks.

This article presents a comprehensive overview of the FY2026 call, including eligibility, documentation, host institution requirements, and the steps needed to successfully apply. It has also been optimized for WordPress SEO, ensuring correct keyword usage for Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan while keeping the reading experience smooth and informative.

Application Deadline and Apply Link 

Official Deadline

9 January 2026 at 17:00 (Japan Standard Time)

Apply Here

All applications must be submitted by the Japanese host institution through the JSPS Electronic Application System.

Applicants cannot apply independently. The host researcher in Japan is responsible for preparing and submitting the complete application package.

Purpose of the Fellowship Program

The Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan Short-Term (PE) program enables promising early-career researchers to:

• Conduct collaborative research with leading Japanese universities, laboratories, and institutions

• Deepen academic exchange between Japan and the international scientific community

• Access cutting-edge resources, facilities, and supervision

• Strengthen long-term global research partnerships

The fellowship typically supports short, intensive research visits. This makes it especially suitable for researchers who require a focused period of time in Japan to work on specific research objectives, access specialized equipment, complete joint publications, or advance new international projects.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the FY2026 Short-Term (PE) Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan, applicants must:

• Hold a doctoral degree at the time of starting the fellowship, or be scheduled to obtain it before their research stay begins

• Be officially invited by a Japanese host researcher affiliated with an eligible institution

• Demonstrate a strong academic record and a clear research plan aligned with the expertise of the host laboratory or department

One of the central aspects of this fellowship is the collaborative nature of the research. Host institutions must support the proposal and agree to sponsor the candidate throughout the application process.

Application Process and Required Documents

Unlike many fellowship programs where candidates apply directly, the Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japanrequire the Japanese host to prepare and submit the application through the institution’s internal approval system. This ensures that every part of the proposal is endorsed at departmental and institutional levels before reaching JSPS.

Core components of the FY2026 application include:

• FORM1 (host researcher application form)

• FORM2 (foreign applicant form)

• Detailed research plan

• Letter of recommendation

• Confirmation of institutional approval

It is essential to begin communicating with potential host researchers early. Many Japanese universities set their own internal deadlines long before JSPS’s official cut-off date. Failing to meet these internal deadlines may prevent submission altogether.

Host Institution Responsibilities

Host institutions in Japan play a crucial role. They must verify:

• That all documentation is accurate and complete

• That the proposal is approved by the head of the institution

• That they can support the researcher if selected

• That the application meets JSPS standards before final submission

No application will be accepted without official institutional approval.

Where to Find Full Official Guidelines 

Full details for the FY2026 Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan (Short-Term PE) are available on the official JSPS website:
https://www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-pd/fellowships-short.html

This includes eligibility criteria, review sections, instructions for completing the forms, and downloadable templates.

For additional international fellowships, scholarships, and global research opportunities, visit:
Opportunities For Youth .

Conclusion

The FY2026 Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan represent an exceptional opportunity for researchers seeking international collaboration in one of the world’s leading research environments. With the deadline approaching, applicants are encouraged to review all guidelines, finalize their research proposal with their host institution, and ensure ample time for internal approval.